By: Debra Patterson/ The College Mom
Oh no, my life is over! I’m just starting college and I’m PREGNANT! As if being a college student isn’t hard enough, add a baby bump to that and it seems like your world is coming to an end.
After finding out you’re expecting, many women struggle with decisions on whether to continue their education or drop out temporarily, if not permanently.
I know what you’re thinking! “I’m only 20. I’m suppose to be studying for exams, not doing countless research on Mommy do’s and don’ts. I’m barely legal. I have no Earthly idea how to become responsible for another human life. And on top of all of that , how will I tell my mom?”
You’re at the age when all your friends are enjoying the perks of “adult life” and you’re out shopping for cribs and strollers.
In today’s time, we hear a lot on teen pregnancy, but what about the women who became mothers in their undergrad years.
It’s truly a struggle for some of us balancing books, babies and trying to prepare for our hopeful futures in the workforce.
First things First: Learn your rights
Title IX of the Education Amendments protects pregnant women from any discrimination while obtaining your degree. Your university is required to treat pregnant women as they treat others. In your tuition, you pay for health and medical benefits. These benefits are required to be provided to you in the same manner as they are provided to other students with disabilities.
A pregnant student can be granted a leave of absence for as long as it is medically needed and must be allowed to resume college at the status she held when the leave began. Whew, isn’t that a relief?
The law is on your side. Every pregnancy is different and some require special attention so you might miss class more often than you like. It’s okay! Your absences cannot be held against you due to your pregnancy. Even if your professor has a strict attendance policy, your absences are excused. Of course you will have to provide the proper documentation.
Also your college must allow you the opportunity to make up work you missed. It is the federal law so don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself.
After Birth! What do I do now?
Nine months has come and gone quickly. You’re feeling the pressure of “Motherhood.” The price for baby formula is out the roof and diapers will go quicker than you can blink.
Take a breather. You can do this!
There is assistance available. Some universities provide childcare on campus, you should look into that. If not, the government provides child care finical aid for a parent who’s in school.
W.I.C (Woman Infant Children) is a nutrition program that provides federal grants to states for supplemental foods, heath care referrals and nutrition education. You benefit a lot from this program and the classes truly teach you valuable information.
The most important thing is to not give up! Sometimes in life everything does not work out the way we plan. Getting pregnant in college might have not been your plan, but don’t let be your downfall. You’re not alone. The key is to keep going!
I’m not saying it’s going to be easy, but it will be worth it. Your education and journey into motherhood is what you make it.
Helpful links:
Find Pregnancy and Parenting Sources on Your Campus
Women Infant and Children (WIC)
To apply for Health Care for Pregnant women
To apply for Finical Aid for Child Care
If you feel you are being discriminated against please visit here
